Cleveland, OH – Lake-effect snow continues to create hazardous travel conditions along the Lake Erie shoreline today, with multiple Winter Weather Advisories in place across northeast Ohio and northwest Pennsylvania. The National Weather Service says snow bands will shift through the region throughout the day, producing rapid changes in visibility and periods of heavy snow.
According to the National Weather Service in Cleveland, Ashtabula Lakeshore County, including Ashtabula, Conneaut and Geneva, will see up to 3 additional inches of snow through 7 p.m. Friday, with gusts to 35 mph reducing visibility. Roads are expected to remain slick and snow-covered at times.
In Summit County, including Akron, forecasters expect 3 to 5 inches in northern areas, with snowfall rates potentially reaching 1 inch per hour early this morning. Travel may be very difficult during the most intense bands.
Farther west, Lorain County, including Lorain, Elyria and Avon Lake, remains under an advisory until 1 p.m. Friday with up to 2 inches of snow expected. The heaviest snowfall is occurring early this morning, primarily in northeastern parts of the county.
Across the state line in Northern Erie County, Pennsylvania, including the city of Erie, a Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect until 1 a.m. Saturday. Another 2 to 4 inches of snow are possible, with winds up to 40 mph creating blowing snow and dangerous travel.
Road conditions may change dramatically over short distances as lake-effect snow bands fluctuate in intensity and location. Transportation officials in both states urge drivers to reduce speed, leave extra stopping distance and prepare for rapidly changing weather.
Ohio travelers can check road conditions at OHGO.com, while Pennsylvania conditions are available at 511PA.com.
